Kaipātiki Hot Springs has helped over 120 tamariki (children) from local kura (schools) build water confidence by hosting the swim leg of the Kaipara Schools Triathlon, creating a structured and supportive environment for young people to take part in the water. 

Ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day on 25 July, the event highlights the important role local aquatic venues can play in helping tamariki develop confidence, safer habits and positive early experiences in and around the water. 

The message follows Water Safety New Zealand’s 2025 Drowning Prevention Report, which recorded 78 drowning deaths in 2025. The report also found 43 deaths, or 55% of fatalities, involved people who were by themselves in or around water. 

Belgravia Leisure General Manager Health and Safety, Scott Vanderheyden, said structured aquatic environments play an important role in helping young people develop skills and confidence they can carry beyond the pool. 

“Swimming and safe water understanding are critical life skills, particularly outside of the structured local or home pool setting,” Scott said. 

“Events such as the one at Kaipātiki provide the skills, knowledge and confidence for young people to learn about being in and around water in a safe environment. These are the kinds of experiences that can support safer behaviours when young people are around beaches, fishing spots, watercraft or other aquatic environments.

The day was a strong example of local collaboration, with volunteers, Auckland Transport and local Police helping keep the event safe, organised and running smoothly. 

The outdoor pool was set up with dedicated swim lanes, giving students a clear space to complete the swim component, while teachers, whānau (families), friends and supporters encouraged them from the poolside.

Yolanda Choromanski, Principal of Parakai School, said the partnership with Kaipātiki Hot Springs helped create a positive experience for students. 

“Water safety and water confidence are so important for our tamariki, especially in a region where many families spend time around pools, beaches, rivers and other waterways. 

“Partnering with Kaipātiki Hot Springs allowed our students to complete the swim leg of the triathlon in a safe, structured and supportive environment. The team helped with pool access, lane set-up and coordination on the day, which meant our tamariki could focus on participating, giving it a go and building confidence in the water. 

“It was a really positive experience for our students, whānau and school community, and we’re grateful to Kaipātiki Hot Springs for helping make the event possible.” 

Kaipātiki Hot Springs General Manager Dion Tilson said the event showed what can be achieved when schools, aquatic venues and local partners work together. 

“Events like the Kaipara Schools Triathlon give tamariki the chance to be active, build confidence and experience the water in a positive and supported way,” Dion said. 

“It was great to see our team, local kura, whānau, teachers, volunteers and partners all coming together to support the tamariki and help create such a welcoming environment.” 

With World Drowning Prevention Day encouraging communities across Aotearoa New Zealand to take action on drowning prevention, Kaipātiki Hot Springs is proud to play an ongoing role in supporting water confidence across the Kaipara region. 

“Whether it’s through school events, swimming lessons or everyday visits with whānau, we want Kaipātiki Hot Springs to be a place where everyone feels welcome, supported and confident in and around the water,” Dion concluded. 

To learn more, visit the Kaipātiki Hot Springs website.